Keeping the legacy alive

During the seminar, the who's who on Nazrul gave speeches on his life and work. Each guest spoke about the poet's stance against imperialism, his voice for the Muslims, secularism and last but not the least his timeless contribution for the people of Bangladesh, while reciting parts of his poems. The chief guest for the evening was Barrister Moudud Ahmed, Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. In his speech, Ahmed said that it was indubitable that Nazrul was a rebel, which we can see from his great work, rebelliously inspiring millions across the country against British imperialism.

The special guest was Professor Mohammad Asaduzzaman, chairperson, University Grants Commission and Dr Abul Kalam Manzur Morshed, director general, Bangla Academy. Among the special invitees were poet Asad Choudhury, Shohrab Hossain- Nazrul exponent, Shahabuddin Ahmed- researcher and Nazrul expert, Dr Abdus Sattar- Lecturer, Institute of Fine Arts, DU and poet Abdul Hai Shikdar- executive director, Nazrul Institute. Poet Al Mahmud- one of Bangladesh's most revered poets --presided over the programme.

After the speeches, Barrister Moudud Ahmed gave away prizes to the winners of the children's art competition organised by the Nazrul Janmabarshiki Udjapon Jatiyo Committee. Professor Abdus Sattar had inaugurated the event earlier in the morning, which took place at the Shishu Academy. Approximately 150 students took part from various schools across Dhaka. The contest was divided into five groups. Whereas the first four groups were based on age and grade ranging from class 1-10, the fifth group was for the physically challenged students. Amidst loud applause from the audience, the tiny tots collected their prizes from the minister.

The programme ended with an evening dedicated to Nazrul -- featuring some of his most famous poems and songs. Salauddin Ahmed, Liakat Ali Khan and Khalid Hossain took the lead while many upcoming artistes also participated.